Mildura Rural City Council, in collaboration with the Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre, Cultivator Inc, Be Collective, and Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council (SMECC), will host a free two-day workshop this month aimed at helping local groups and organisations attract and retain volunteers.
Councillor for Community Development and Gender Equity Helen Healy said volunteers were the driving force behind a host of local groups, clubs and organisations, making attracting and retaining them critical.
The two-day workshop will be held at the Mildura Sporting Precinct on May 19 and 20, featuring topics including:
- Introduction of the National Volunteer Strategy 2023
- Be Collective software to engage, manage and connect with volunteers
- Practical knowledge and skills
- Inclusive volunteering
Speakers will include representatives from Volunteering Australia, Be Collective, SMECC, the Bendigo Volunteer Resource Centre and Cultivator Inc.
Other topics to be covered over the two-day workshop include guidance for engaging volunteers in community events, taking in how to develop good policies, processes and procedures, risk management and event planning.
There will also be an interactive session aimed at helping local organisations understand the lifecycle of a volunteer, which will aid in them becoming an organisation of choice.
Cr Healy said the workshop would be beneficial for a broad range of local groups.
“We see volunteers play a critical role in our community year-round,” she said.
“Whether it’s regular local sporting competition on weekends, community service organisations or major events that attract thousands of visitors to our region – all rely heavily on volunteers, making them a critical resource in our community.
